Helloworld Travel says it is proceeding to acquire the Magellan Travel Group as planned, with the transaction expected to complete early this month – yet some Magellan members are stunned by the speed with which the deal was announced before Christmas.

As noted earlier, it remains to be seen how the Helloworld corporate culture will mesh with that of Magellan. Many Magellan members are proud to be independent and see that as an advantage and a point of distinction over the multi groups.

A significant proportion of Magellan’s 130-or-so members are believed to be seeking an alternative to Helloworld. An established and well-known travel industry player is understood to be making overtures to them, offering a luxury retail and personalised corporate platform.

Could this be the beginning of yet another industry group or sub-group? Details are likely to emerge shortly.